Why Your Bite May Change as You Age

As we age, our bodies go through a variety of changes, and your dental health is no exception. One of the lesser-known shifts that can occur is a change in your bite. You may notice that your teeth don’t line up the way they used to, or you might experience new discomfort when chewing. At Riverwood Dental, serving patients in the Atlanta and Smyrna area, we want to help you understand why your bite might change as you get older and what can be done to address these changes.

Common Reasons Your Bite Changes with Age

Your bite, also known as your occlusion, refers to how your upper and lower teeth fit together. Over time, various factors can contribute to changes in the alignment of your teeth and jaw. Here are some of the most common reasons your bite may shift as you age:

1. Tooth Wear and Tear

As we age, the daily wear and tear on our teeth can begin to show. Chewing, grinding, and even brushing can wear down tooth enamel, causing the teeth to flatten or shift. This gradual erosion changes the shape of your teeth and, in turn, affects how your teeth come together when you bite.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), tooth wear is one of the leading causes of bite changes in adults. Over time, teeth may lose height, making your bite feel uneven or uncomfortable.

2. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Many people grind their teeth, either due to stress or while sleeping—a condition known as bruxism. This constant grinding can significantly wear down your teeth over time, leading to changes in your bite. The National Sleep Foundation estimates that 10-15% of adults grind their teeth during sleep, which can cause noticeable changes to the alignment of your teeth and jaw over time.

3. Gum Recession and Bone Loss

Another factor that can impact your bite as you age is gum recession. Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is more common as we get older and can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth. This recession can lead to bone loss around the teeth, resulting in teeth becoming loose or shifting out of alignment.

The CDC reports that 47% of adults aged 30 or older have some form of gum disease, which can lead to significant changes in tooth position and bite alignment if left untreated.

4. Tooth Loss

Missing teeth can also lead to a shift in your bite. When a tooth is lost, the remaining teeth may gradually move into the empty space, causing misalignment. This movement not only affects your bite but can also lead to additional problems, such as difficulty chewing or discomfort in the jaw joint.

If you’ve lost one or more teeth, it’s essential to address the issue with restorative treatments like dental implants or bridges to prevent your bite from shifting further.

5. Jawbone Changes

As you age, the structure of your jawbone can change. The jawbone may begin to shrink or lose density, particularly if you’ve lost teeth or suffered from untreated gum disease. These changes in the jaw can lead to bite misalignment and even discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research highlights the importance of maintaining healthy jawbones through regular dental check-ups and early intervention for conditions like gum disease or missing teeth.

Why It’s Important to Address Bite Changes

A change in your bite is more than just a cosmetic issue. Left untreated, bite misalignment can lead to several complications, including:

• Jaw pain or discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
• Difficulty chewing and digesting food properly.
• Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease due to improper cleaning of misaligned teeth.
• Worn or damaged teeth from uneven pressure during chewing.

At Riverwood Dental, we encourage patients to pay close attention to any changes in their bite and to seek professional care if they experience discomfort. Regular dental visits can help us identify and address these changes early on, preventing further complications down the road.

How Riverwood Dental Can Help

If you’ve noticed changes in your bite, don’t ignore them. At Riverwood Dental, Dr. Brady Johnston and our experienced team offer comprehensive solutions to address bite misalignment and help you maintain a healthy smile as you age. From nightguards for teeth grinding to dental implants and orthodontic treatments like OrthoFX clear aligners for misaligned teeth, we have the expertise to provide the care you need.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

At Riverwood Dental in Atlanta and Smyrna, we’re here to help you maintain optimal oral health as you age. If you’re experiencing changes in your bite or any other dental concerns, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you enjoy a comfortable, healthy smile for years to come!